MLS Cup Playoff Predictions: Can Messi Lead Inter Miami Past the First Round?
Argentina’s superstar Lionel Messi, South Korea’s playmaker Son Heung-min, and the U.S. men’s team duo Tim Ream and Matt Freese are among the names expected to shine at next year’s 48-team World Cup, the largest ever. However, before the tournament comes around, they will all be looking to claim the MLS Cup.
The first round of the MLS Cup playoffs begins on Friday, with 16 teams (eight from each conference) competing in a best-of-three series. The winners will progress in the bracket, all eyes set on the MLS Cup final scheduled for December 6. How will the first-round series unfold cc6 bet? Let’s break them down and make some predictions:
Eastern Conference
Philadelphia Union (1) vs. Chicago Fire (8)
The Philadelphia Union, long-time contenders for the MLS Cup under their beloved coach Jim Curtin, made headlines by firing him after a disappointing season last year. However, under new coach Bradley Carnell, the Union orchestrated one of the greatest turnarounds in MLS history, winning the Supporters Shield for the second time in club history. Their sights are set firmly on the MLS Cup after narrowly losing to LAFC in a dramatic final in 2022.
Step one is defeating the Fire. Chicago managed a surprise victory against Orlando, giving them their first postseason win in 16 years. Surviving a three-game series against the Union, especially with the final match played away, presents a significant challenge for them. Regardless of the outcome, it will be a valuable learning experience.
Prediction: Philadelphia in 2
FC Cincinnati (2) vs. Columbus Crew (7)
Whether you call it the “Hell is Real” rivalry or the “Battle of Ohio,” both these teams will be vying for bragging rights when they kick off their series at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati on Monday. This intense matchup features two quality teams; Cincinnati won the Supporters Shield in 2023, while the Crew captured the MLS Cup and the Leagues Cup, making their presence known in the league.
Though Columbus had a less stellar season this year, their championship experience makes them a formidable opponent. Still, FCC is the favorite, especially with their star Brazilian forward Evander who could be the key player in this series.
Prediction: Cincinnati in 3
Inter Miami (3) vs. Nashville SC (6)
After winning the Supporters Shield last season, Miami faced disappointments in their playoff journey, being knocked out by Atlanta United and home eliminated by Vancouver in the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinals. They were also embarrassed by PSG in the FIFA Club World Cup, furthering their struggle.
However, everything is reset as they enter the 2025 playoffs. History is on their side against Nashville, as Messi scored twice against them last weekend, securing the Golden Boot. Miami also bested Nashville in previous matches, including the Leagues Cup final and U. pinas77 login appS. Open Cup semis in 2023.
Nonetheless, Nashville sees this as an opportunity, with star Hany Mukhtar believing their recent match-up gives them an edge. Miami remains determined to secure American soccer’s most coveted trophy, sending retiring veterans Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets off in style.
Prediction: Inter Miami in 3
Charlotte FC (4) vs 555pub app download apk. New York City FC (5)
After transferring U.S. striker Patrick Agyemang to Derby County midseason, Charlotte still has plenty to offer, especially for U.S. national team supporters. With Tim Ream captaining Charlotte and Matt Freese in goal for NYCFC, two projected World Cup starters will face off for a quarterfinal spot.
Freese, a Harvard graduate, is a finalist for the league’s Goalkeeper of the Year award, while Ream continues to shine at 38, showing no signs of slowing down after his return to MLS. It’s a close match-up, but Charlotte will miss Wilfried Zaha, who received a red card that will keep him out of Tuesday’s game.
Prediction: NYCFC in 3
Western Conference
San Diego FC (1) vs. Portland Timbers (8)
San Diego FC surprised many by making it to the playoffs in their inaugural season, outperforming traditional Western Conference giants like LAFC and Seattle. However, their run seems reminiscent of St. Louis’s early impressive season two years ago and could quickly end once postseason pressures mount.
With uncertainty surrounding star Mexican striker Hirving “Chucky” Lozano due to a fallout with the coach, we’re opting for Portland to advance. jili777.
Prediction: Timbers in 2
Vancouver Whitecaps (2) vs. FC Dallas (7)
Much like Philadelphia, the Whitecaps missed the playoffs last year, leading to a coaching change. This year, Vancouver has surprised many, reaching the Concacaf Champions Cup final while narrowly missing the Supporters Shield. The Canadian side strengthened their roster throughout 2025, featuring Germany’s Thomas Muller and U.S. national regulars.
On the other hand, Dallas struggled to make the playoffs and is unlikely to pull off a shock win over a much stronger Vancouver team.
Prediction: Whitecaps in 2
LAFC (3) vs. Austin FC (6)
LAFC has faced struggles since their 2022 championship win. Despite reaching the MLS Cup final again, they lost to Columbus and have found it challenging to maintain momentum. However, they should be able to overcome an Austin team that has faltered significantly, finishing the regular season with three losses in their last four games.
Prediction: LAFC in 2
Minnesota United (4) vs. Seattle Sounders (5)
The Seattle Sounders bring considerable experience to the playoffs, having faced top teams across various competitions. However, home advantage remains a critical factor in MLS, and Minnesota has shown they can be a dangerous opponent. After winning only one of their last four matches, they could still upset the status quo in this competitive playoff.
Prediction: Minnesota in 3
Doug McIntyre is a soccer journalist for FOX Sports, covering the US men’s and women’s national teams in FIFA World Cups across five continents. Want to receive great stories in your inbox every day? Create or log in to your FOX Sports account and follow your favorite leagues, teams, and players to get a personalized newsletter!
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